As you get older, the function of the body's organs will decrease. Likewise with the hearing function. So, not a few elderly people who experience hearing difficulties or problems. Of course this hearing problem is not dangerous, but for the most part it becomes difficult to do activities. The process of degeneration or aging of the sense of hearing is called prebiscusis
● What causes Prebiscusis?
This disease is caused by several factors, including:
- Age
- Gender
   Men have a higher risk of developing prebiscusis than women. According to several studies, this is due to male activities in noisy areas
- Comorbidities
  Diabetes mellitus, hypertension, high cholesterol, high fat content (dyslipidemia) and others.
- Long history of exposure to noise
- Certain drugs
- Decreased Ear Function:
      - Aging of the eardrum elasticity
      - Changes in the number of nerves in the ear
      - Changes in auditory / hearing function in the central nervous

 

● What are the symptoms of Prebiscusis? Symptoms can begin with a decrease in the ability to hear high-pitched sounds, then difficulty understanding speech, especially in noisy areas, pain in the ears when the speaker increases the volume of the voice, to complaints of ringing in the ears. These complaints appear slowly and progressively, so that in the early stages there is generally no hearing loss

● How to reduce prebiscusis complaints?

Prebiscusis is difficult to prevent, but we can do several things to prevent further ear damage. Among them by:

1. Avoid Noises

Limit exposure to noise such as vehicle noises, loud sounds from speakers, and other loud sounds. Avoid prolonged exposure to the noise

2. Routinely Check Ears

Do routine ear examinations to an ENT specialist at the nearest hospital. Knowing hearing loss early will make it easier for the doctor to determine the right therapy according to the cause, and prevent further damage to the sense of hearing. Always consult complaints experienced to help doctors analyze your hearing problems.

3. Use Ear Protection

If you work in a place where you are at risk of being exposed to noise for a long period of time, use earplugs or other ear protection while working. Workers in the factory area, construction workers, or in the general transportation industry are at high risk.

4. Do a Healthy Lifestyle
Eat a nutritious diet, low in fat and sugar. This helps prevent disease or prevent complications arising from hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and diseases that can affect hearing loss.

5. Speak in a low tone
Ask the other person to speak to you in a lower, clearer voice

Sometimes hearing problems in the elderly can cause emotional and psychological problems for the sufferer. Difficulty understanding conversations will certainly make it difficult for parents to communicate, especially those who always need other people to help with their daily activities.

 Therefore, if you or your parents begin to experience the complaints that have been mentioned, do a hearing function examination to an ENT specialist as early as possible.